I have been to Minneapolis several times in the last several months and love it there....  When I asked this very question there was a downtown/MOA (mall of america) 50/50 flip....  I have stayed in several area's of the city and personally like St. Louis Park and Egan...  Just a personal thing and I am sure most people won't agree with me...  Both of those area's have free parking and free internet...  Right off of major highways so easy access...  I had no problems with my fella's coming to visit either area...

Downtown was cool, except you have to pay to park and for internet.. Also, you can't drive down that crazy street... I ate at lots of places down there and was so not impressed with the food...  I can recommend a great chicken wing place...  

I don't really go out much so I can't help you with the fun part...  If you are into nature I can let you in on walking trails and scenic things.. Just PM me if you want...

Have fun.... Oh and don't forget about Duluth, they are right up the road and so lovely... Lovely place/Lovely people!!!!